Mauritania VE and Media Assessment

Since 2015, VE trends and drivers in Mauritania have been shaped by a complex interplay of factors, including social, economic, and political dynamics. Research conducted in five regions of Mauritania, including Nouakchott, Nouadhibou, Hodh el-Gharbi, Trarza, and Assaba, identified key drivers of extremism. These drivers include social fractures, such as ethnic and regional tensions, as well as economic and resource-related issues. The Haratine, a marginalized ethnic group, and individuals lacking access to basic resources are among the most vulnerable demographic groups. Geographic areas most at risk of VE include the regions of Hodh el-Gharbi and Trarza, where extremist groups have been active. Women and youth are among the most susceptible demographic groups, with variation observed across subnational regions. The evidence supporting this finding is limited, but it highlights the need for targeted interventions to address the specific needs of these groups. The primary audience for addressing the drivers of VE in Mauritania includes the main demographic groups identified as "at-risk," as well as marginalized groups such as the Haratine and those suffering from lack of access to basic resources. Effective communication and outreach strategies are essential to engage these groups and address the underlying drivers of extremism. The media landscape in Mauritania plays a critical role in shaping public perceptions and influencing the spread of VE. Extremist groups use media to further their cause, while local media outlets have the potential to counter extremist narratives and promote counter-narratives. However, the capacity of media outlets to produce and disseminate content effectively is limited, and there is a need for capacity-building and support to enhance their role in CVE efforts. Research findings suggest that media and communications programming can help mitigate drivers of extremism, such as social fractures and economic disparities. Local partners in the field of media and communications for CVE are available, and their capacity can be leveraged to support CVE efforts in Mauritania.